Temppeliaukio Church, Helsinki

Temppeliaukio Church, which means temple square, but is more commonly known as Rock Church in English, is one of my favorite locations.

The church gets it name because it was created right in the middle of a large rock formation on a hill in Helsinki – in the middle of a large residential section.

It was completed in 1969 and the Lutheran church makes good use of the church – Sunday mass and daily prayer services. Other events happen here too – Around Easter there was a performance of Jesus Christ Superstar.

The organ gets a workout too with plenty of organ recitals and other musical events throughout the year.

When the church is open to the public (most days, you can look up the daily schedule on the internet), you will always find people in the church, taking pictures or just sitting, taking in silence, the soft music that is playing, or praying. It’s one of the most peaceful places in the city.

It’s amazing that one can be sitting in a rock and feel at peace with the world. Awesome!

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I believe that God, church, and theology are approachable, enjoyable, and relevant for everyone. I write about this a lot because people need to hear it. So many people feel lost, hopeless, alone, and are searching for identity and meaning.
I'm an ELCA Pastor (Lutheran) who has a background in politics, business, and the non-profit worlds. I take churchy theological ideas and words and communicate them in everyday language that people can understand, in ways that relate, and show that God, church, and theology matter a great deal. Oh, and it doesn't have to be boring either - mostly because it's the best news ever!